“With overnight lows expected to range from the negative teens to near zero, Pennsylvania residents in parts of the state will see some of the coldest temperatures in nearly two decades,” Corbett said. “Although we are fortunate that this cold snap will be brief, it is important to know that low temperatures such as those forecasted, combined with bitter cold wind chills will be dangerous.

“I’m urging Pennsylvanians to avoid unnecessary trips outdoors, until after the extreme cold has passed. However, if you must venture outside be sure to take the necessary precautions and limit the time spent in the harsh weather.”

Corbett said that he has been receiving regular briefings from the Pennsylvania Emergency Management Agency (PEMA) regarding the coming extreme cold and that he has instructed the agency to be at the ready in case additional state resources are necessary.

“The bottom line is that preparedness equals safety,” Corbett said. “PEMA and other state agencies will be working around the clock to keep Pennsylvanians safe and I’m urging all residents to have their own emergency plan in place just in case. Remember that the time to plan is before an emergency strikes.”

The commonwealth’s ReadyPA campaign encourages citizens to take three basic steps before an emergency occurs: Be Informed, Be Prepared, Be Involved. More detailed information, including downloadable emergency kit checklists and emergency plan templates, is available online at www.ReadyPA.org.